“When he took time to help the man up the mountain, lo, he scaled it himself.” – Tibetan Proverb

One of my college friends lives across the street from Jason Lezak. You may not recognize that name. My pal says he’s a great guy. However, Steve’s sons are a little less impressed with their Dad’s plastic motocross trophies since Jason let them wear his gold medals.

In the 2008 Olympics the Americans were losing a race. Then Jason swam the anchor leg of the men’s 4 x 100 freestyle relay faster than anyone ever had. Without Jason, Michael Phelps would not have won his record 8th gold medal. After the race Michael couldn’t say enough about Jason and how much he owed to his effort.

A few years later, after the Jamaicans won the men’s 4 x 100 relay (the on land version), some of Usain Bolt’s first words were “I am a legend. I am number one!” Granted, he is. And he is the fastest man alive; however, I expected some acknowledgement of the other three guys on his team. His team probably did, too.

Sometimes, we pay more attention to the mountaintop we’re standing on than the people who helped us climb it.

As you ascend peaks; stop, take a look around. Who is on the top of the mountain holding the other end of the rope? Let them know you appreciate them not letting go of it.